get geico. fifteen minutes could save you fifteen percent or more. >>> we're just a few days way from fiscal disaster but still time for politicians to rise above and stop it. >>> democratic congressman jim himes is going to join us. we will ask strategists from both parties what it takes to avoid the fiscal cliff. >> the report of retailers. >> i love the smell of congress in the morning. >>> retailers try to close out on a strong note. the third hour of "squawk box" begins right now. >>> welcome back. i'm joe concern non along with andrew ross sorkin. becky quick is out today and our guest host is dan greenhouse with the beroni tie and cnbc contributor. just a slip. more frin a minute. first andrew has your good morning headlines. >>> no surprise, the fiscal cliff, both aides or parties saying a partial patch is the most to be expected before january 1st. the session of the senate set for tomorrow. the house, nothing on its schedule for the week but have been told they could be called back wit